Multiple choice

Iron uptake is problematic owing to the insolubility of the Fe 3 + ion (usually in the form of hydroxides). Microbes overcome this difficulty by secreting special high-affinity, iron-binding molecules termed as __________.

  1. siderophores

  2. permeases

  3. methionine

  4. vitamins

  5. phosphoenolpyruvate
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A Correct answer
Explanation

This is true. Microbes have built up specialized transport systems called siderophores. After the molecule is transported in, it gives up the iron ion which is then reduced to the ferrous form (Fe 2+). These siderophores are recycled.

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